Living a 3 D Lifestyle

Living a 3D Lifestyle

Read: 1 Corinthians 2:1-16

“For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified”.  (1 Corinthians 2:2 NASB)

            To effectively live a 3-D lifestyle, we need to put into practice three qualities: Determination, Devotion, and Demonstration.  (Taken from Turning Point Devotional by Dr. David Jeremiah, October 2011, pages 17-190)

            Determination is defined as “the act of coming to a decision or conclusion, a fixing of one’s position, a firm or fixed position, to resolve or purpose to do something.”  (The Merriam Webster Dictionary, 2005 page 134)

            One of the outstanding examples of determination was Daniel and his three friends as described in Daniel 1:8a: “But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the King…” (NLT)

            Other translations say, “he resolved” (NIV), “he purposed (NKJ), or “he made up his mind” (NASB). 

            Determination is one quality that seems to be lacking in our present day post-modern church circles.  Politicians are not the only ones who are guilty of “flip-flopping” over philosophical issues.  Christians, I fear, are just as guilty of changing positions for the sake of convenience.  What we need are believers whose lifestyle indicates a willingness to take a determined stand for the Lord no matter what happens.

            The second 3-D quality is Devotion.  Devotion is defined by Webster’s Dictionary, p. 135 as “a state of being dedicated and loyal.  It involves religious fervor.  Such synonyms as faithfulness, fidelity, steadfastness, passion, enthusiasm, eagerness, attachment, admiration, and strong affection can also be applied to the term.”

            True devotion requires an intimate relationship with Christ.  That’s why it is so important to find a place of solitude where time can be spent listening to the voice of our Creator.

            The final 3-D quality is Demonstration.  If practiced on a daily basis, this quality is an active function that puts Christ on display in the marketplace.  It’s determining to put James’ command to be “doers of the word” into practice. 

            What kind of 3-D lifestyle are you and I living?  Are we determined to show our devotion by demonstrating Christ to the world?

Thought for the Day: Christ is looking for determined, devoted, demonstrators of His love to the world.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to be a demonstrator of your love to the world.